Hadith #2156

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Verily judiciousness is only in obedience to Allah and disobedience to the [lower] self.

This enlightening saying highlights the importance of self-discipline and self-control in the pursuit of righteousness. Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith and explore its meaning in light of the Quran.

The word (hazm) "حَزْمُ" in Arabic refers to judiciousness, determination, or firmness. It implies the ability to make wise decisions and exercise self-control. It is the quality of being resolute and steadfast in the face of challenges and temptations. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that true judiciousness lies in two aspects: obedience to Allah and disobedience to the lower self.

To understand the significance of obedience to Allah, we turn to the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:187),

It has been made lawful for you to approach your wives during the nights of the fast. They are a garment for you and you are a garment for them.

This verse highlights the importance of following the prescribed guidelines for fasting during Ramadan. It requires self-discipline to abstain from food, drink, and other permissible acts during the fasting hours. By obeying Allah's commandments, we demonstrate our devotion and submission to Him.

On the other hand, disobedience to the lower self refers to resisting the temptations and desires that lead us away from the path of righteousness. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us in Surah Yusuf (12:53),

And I do not acquit myself. Indeed, the soul is a persistent enjoiner of evil, except those upon which my Lord has mercy.

This verse acknowledges the inherent inclination of the human soul towards evil and desires. Overcoming these temptations requires self-control and the ability to say no to our base desires.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that true judiciousness lies in striking a balance between obedience to Allah and self-control. By obeying Allah's commands, we align our actions with His will and seek His pleasure. This obedience is not limited to the performance of religious rituals but extends to all aspects of our lives. It encompasses honesty, justice, kindness, and all other virtues that Allah has commanded us to uphold.

At the same time, we must also exercise self-control and refrain from indulging in sinful desires. This self-discipline allows us to overcome our lower selves and avoid actions that are displeasing to Allah. It requires us to resist the temptations of this world and prioritize our spiritual growth over immediate gratification.

The consequences of practicing true judiciousness are profound. By obeying Allah and restraining our lower selves, we attain spiritual growth and closeness to our Creator. We become individuals who are conscious of their actions and strive to live a life that is pleasing to Allah. Our character is refined, and we become a source of inspiration and guidance for others.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of self-discipline and self-control in our journey towards righteousness. It is through the balance of obedience to Allah and resistance to our lower selves that we can attain true judiciousness. May Allah grant us the strength and wisdom to embody these qualities and may He bless us with His guidance and mercy.